Weekend Guide: Cincinnati's Art, Food, and History

Discover the heart of the Midwest in Cincinnati.

03 May 2023

As a tourist, a trip to Cincinnati offers an exciting mix of entertainment and culture. Visitors can explore the city's rich history by visiting landmarks like the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Museum Center. They can also indulge in Cincinnati's famous food scene, sampling local specialties like chili and goetta.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Cincinnati's Art and Food Scene

  • Hotel: The Cincinnatian Hotel a historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Cincinnati.
  • Start your day with coffee and pastries from Holtman's Donuts in Over-the-Rhine, a trendy neighborhood filled with street art.
  • Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of works ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
  • Take a stroll through Findlay Market, a bustling outdoor market with vendors selling everything from local produce to artisanal cheeses.
  • For lunch, head to Senate, an upscale hot-dog restaurant with creative toppings. Try the "Surf and Turf" dog with lobster and truffle butter.
  • Spend the afternoon at the famous Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, home to over 500 animal species and beautiful gardens.
  • End your day at The Eagle, a popular fried chicken joint that serves Southern-style sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
Day 2

Discovering Cincinnati's History and Neighborhoods

  • Start your day with breakfast at Taste of Belgium, a Belgian-inspired cafe that serves waffles, crepes, and breakfast sandwiches.
  • Learn about Cincinnati's brewing history at the Brewing Heritage Trail, a walking tour that takes you through historic breweries and explains the city's beer culture.
  • Wander through the colorful streets of the Northside neighborhood, which is filled with vibrant murals and quirky shops.
  • For lunch, grab a slice at Goodfellas Pizzeria, which serves New York-style pizza by the slice.
  • Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, a museum that explores the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad.
  • End your day with a trip to the top of Carew Tower, a 49-story Art Deco skyscraper with stunning views of the city.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cincinnati by plane is to fly to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). There are direct flights from major cities in the US, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta.

Car

Driving to Cincinnati is a good option as it allows for flexibility and can be more cost-effective than flying. The best route is via interstate highways 75 and 71. The drive is approximately 9 hours from New York and 6 hours from Chicago.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct train routes to Cincinnati, so taking a train is not the best option.

Boat

Since Cincinnati is not located near any major bodies of water, taking a boat is not a viable option for reaching the city.

Bus

Taking a bus to Cincinnati is a convenient option. Greyhound bus lines offer several routes to Cincinnati, with buses arriving at the Cincinnati Greyhound Station located at 1005 Gilbert Ave.

Destination

Cincinnati

Welcome to the city known for its chili, baseball, and questionable pronunciation of bag. You'll quickly realize why Cincinnati is a gem of the Midwest (sorry, Chicago).

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days of Fun and Flavor in Cincinnati

A limited budget trip to Cincinnati, United States can be a fun and affordable experience. Travelers can visit attractions like the Cincinnati Art Museum, Findlay Market, and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden without breaking the bank. Staying in affordable hotels or hostels, and exploring local food trucks and cafes can also help to save money on the trip.

Romantic Cincinnati: 5-Day Getaway Guide

Cincinnati offers an ideal setting for a romantic trip with its romantic riverfront, scenic parks, and historic architecture. Couples can take a stroll along the Ohio River, visit the Cincinnati Art Museum, or taste the famous Cincinnati-style chili. From its vibrant cultural scene to its top-notch dining options, Cincinnati is an excellent destination for couples seeking a memorable and romantic getaway.

Cincy Adventure Extravaganza: From Zoo to Rollercoasters

Cincinnati offers a myriad of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip. Take your kids to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, renowned for its diverse animal species and beautiful landscapes. Don't miss exploring the vibrant and educational exhibits at the Cincinnati Museum Center, featuring interactive displays and an impressive dinosaur collection. Lastly, a trip to the Smale Riverfront Park is a must, with its playgrounds, fountains, and scenic views of the Ohio River.

The Ultimate 5-Day Cincinnati Adventure

As a tourist, a trip to Cincinnati, United States offers a blend of history, culture and family fun attractions. Explore the city's 19th century architecture and landmarks, sample local cuisine and embark on a brewery tour to taste Cincinnati's famous beer scene. Take a stroll along the banks of Ohio River and visit the famous Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden for an unforgettable experience.